FIDO Friendly’s three-part call to action when disaster strikes
August 03, 2011 • Health & Wellness • Most Popular
Hurricane Katrina. Her images resonate and the global effect of the devastation remain raw. A poll conducted by the Fritz Institute in April of 2006 revealed 44 percent of people chose not to flee with warning of Hurricane Katrina because they would not leave their pets behind. News reels showed the devastated residents begging for assistance from rooftops, seeking refuge in a football stadium, but where were the dogs amongst them? In many cases, abandoned, lost or awaiting the impending devastation with their family members.
Living the creed, Leave No Dog Behind®, the FIDO Friendly staff wondered what to do before, during and after emergency evacuation. Whether flood, fire, hurricane, tornado or other natural force strikes, we want our readers prepared. Stage by stage we take you through the steps with sage advice from industry experts in disaster planning.
Pre-Planning: What to Have Ready in Fido's "Disaster Kit"
Practicing veterinarian of 20 years, Dr. Lorie Huston, says to have the list of "go-to's" ready. "Find out which motels and hotels in your area accept pets and if there are any size or breed restrictions. Make arrangements with family members and friends in advance who can care for your pet in an emergency." Having evacuated due to rising flood waters, this author drove 250 miles with her dog seeking shelter in a hotel that would accept my dog.
United Animal Nations (UAN) has provided emergency animal sheltering and disaster relief services during dozens of natural disasters over the years. Alexis Raymond, Director of Communications for UAN, recommends the most important items in Fido's disaster kit are:
- A one-week supply of food. Store it in a water-tight container and rotate it every three months to keep it fresh. If you use canned food, include a spare can opener.
- A one-week supply of fresh water. If officials declare your household water unfit to drink, it’s also unsafe for your pets.
- Collapsible food and water bowls.
- Medication. If your animal takes medication, a replacement supply may not be easily available following a disaster. Keep a two-week supply in your disaster kit.
- Copies of vaccination records, in case you need to board your dog or leave him or her at an emergency shelter.
- Photographs of you with your pets to prove ownership.
- Photographs of your pets in case you need to make "lost pet" fliers.
- Pet first aid kit
- Temporary ID tag that you can write your temporary location on (hotel, friend/relative’s house) in case your dog is separated from you.
- A plastic airline crate or wire collapsible crate, which is helpful for transportation or if you will be staying in a hotel that requires pets to be confined while you are out.
- Extra leash.
- Toys and treats. These can help your dog remain calm during a stressful time.
When Disaster Strikes
Author of 8 State Hurricane Kate: The Journey and Legacy of a Katrina Cattle Dog and Not Without My Dog Resource & Record Book, Jenny Pavlovic, told us, “After Hurricane Katrina, the PETS Act was passed by Congress to enable people to take their pets when evacuating. However, the bill did not receive funding to provide for evacuating pets. Instead, communities must have a disaster plan that includes pets in order to receive Federal assistance.”
When communities establish this plan, reimbursement dollars are tied to whether or not the community incorporated animals into their planning. The “Red Cross” for animals, or Noah’s Wish, is an international disaster response group saving the lives of animals impacted by disaster. “Human shelters do not allow co-sheltering with pets,” Jo Ellen Cimmino of Noah’s Wish, reported. “Many shelters have co-locations, meaning the human shelter is in close proximity to the animal shelter. During Hurricane Gustav in 2088, people and pets were kept within a block of each other.” This greatly reduced stress and people were able to visit their animals daily.
Post Disaster
If separated from the family pet, Dr. Nancy Kay, author of Speaking for Spot, suggested that having your dog microchipped and keeping the registry up to date on changes in address and phone number ensures a great peace of mind about reunion with the dog.
United Animal Nations’ Alexis Raymond implores people to take dogs with them if they evacuate. Those left behind can get injured, drown or starve. “The most crucial aspect is for individuals and communities to have a disaster plan in place. Organizations like UAN can assist these communities with manpower and resources, but having a solid plan in place ensures immediate action. Animals can then move directly into care and the owners can rest comfortably knowing every member of their family is safe.”
BONUS Video from FIDO Friendly magazine on what to pack in Fido's First Aid kit.
